Bill > A06855

This bill amends the New York Penal Law to classify the intentional murder of a child under twelve years old as a first-degree murder offense. Specifically, the bill adds a new subparagraph to the existing section 125.27, which defines circumstances for first-degree murder, by including the killing of a child under twelve as an additional qualifying factor. The bill is named "Maddox's Law" and will take effect on November 1st following its passage. By modifying the penal code, this legislation aims to provide additional legal protections for young children and ensure that those who intentionally murder children under twelve can be prosecuted under the most serious murder classification. The change involves inserting language that specifically identifies the age of the victim (under twelve) as a trigger for first-degree murder charges, which typically carry the most severe potential penalties in the criminal justice system.

Housing and Urban Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A6855